White Tapped for Homeland Security Spot

Secretary of the Army Thomas White will be the Defense Department's representative on the new Homeland Security Council. White was named to the post Oct. 3 by Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld.

"In the wake of the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, homeland security has emerged as a paramount national priority," White said. "As the Department of Defense executive agent for homeland security, I look forward to working closely with Gov. Tom Ridge as he leads this vital effort."

Ridge was named by President Bush to lead the Office of Homeland Security. The office will coordinate efforts involving 40 agencies to prevent and respond to terrorist threats.

Other representatives on the council will be drawn from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the FBI and the departments of Justice, Transportation and State.